Back Bay Drive – Back Bay Loop Trail loop from University of California, Irvine

Bike touring routes & trails

Back Bay Drive – Back Bay Loop Trail loop from University of California, Irvine

Easy

3.1

(3)

riders

Back Bay Drive – Back Bay Loop Trail loop from University of California, Irvine

01:32

26.5km

140m

Cycling

Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The route includes a crossing by ferry. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.

Last updated: August 29, 2026

This route includes a ferry crossing

Tips

Includes ferry crossings

Check ferry timetable.

After 12.0 km for 282 m

After 17.0 km for 282 m

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

2.89 km

Back Bay Drive

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

This is a delightful stretch of road that goes along the Back Bay.

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7.07 km

Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve views

Highlight • Viewpoint

Cycling along Black Bay Drive, overlooking Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve, unveils stunning vistas of the estuary. Riders may spot diverse bird species like egrets and herons, while enjoying panoramic …

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10.9 km

Balboa Island

Highlight • Settlement

Pleasant small island community in Newport Bay, connected by a bridge to the mainland on the North side at Bayside Drive, and by a ferry to the Balboa Peninsula to …

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11.0 km

Snipes Island

Highlight • Pub

Nice bar with delicious foods and drinks

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12.3 km

Balboa Island Ferry

Highlight • Structure

The Balboa Island Car Ferry in Newport Beach, California, provides a convenient crossing between Balboa Island and the Balboa Peninsula. The ferry reaches a top speed of four miles per …

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19.6 km

Back Bay Loop Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

The Back Bay Loop Trail offers a 10.5-mile scenic route around Upper Newport Bay. The well-signed trail passes through landmarks like Upper Castaways Park, Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center, …

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23.6 km

View of Upper Newport Bay Estuary

Highlight • Viewpoint

Take in some pretty sweet views across San Diego Creek along this lovely section of low traffic / no traffic MUP connecting Newport Bay to Irvine.

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24.8 km

View of San Diego Creek

Highlight • Viewpoint

From this viewpoint on the Mountains to Sea Trail, adjacent to Eastbluff Drive, you get a nice view over San Diego Creek. This is a great spot to pause and …

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